Description

There’s something undeniably enchanting about the warm embrace of freshly baked cinnamon rolls. Now, imagine amplifying that joy with a vibrant twist—a stunning red velvet cinnamon roll! This delightful fusion of flavors and colors brings together the classic taste of a cinnamon roll, reminiscent of cozy gatherings or leisurely weekend breakfasts, and the glamorous charm of luscious red velvet cake, famously known for its soft texture and rich flavor.

Hailing from the American South, where red velvet cake originated, these rolls not only promise a treat for your taste buds but also bring a pop of color to your brunch table. Each bite reveals a tender, pillowy roll drizzled with creamy frosting that melts in your mouth, delivering a sweet burst of cinnamon and sugar.

Whether you're baking for a special occasion, a festive brunch, or simply to satisfy your sweet tooth, these red velvet cinnamon rolls are easy to make and guaranteed to impress! They can become a cherished family tradition or a favorite addition to your personal recipe collection. The process of crafting these beauties—from kneading the dough to slathering on the cream cheese frosting—becomes a joyous occasion in itself. So, roll up your sleeves, and let’s get baking!

Ingredients

• To ensure you have a delightful baking experience, gather the following ingredients. The structure is divided into sections for easy reference:
• Dough:
• - 1 cup warm milk (between 100°F and 110°F)
• - 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
• - ¼ cup granulated sugar
• - ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
• - 1 teaspoon salt
• - 2 large eggs
• - 4 cups all-purpose flour
• - 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
• - 1 tablespoon red food coloring
• Filling:
• - ½ cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
• - ½ cup brown sugar, packed
• - 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
• Cream Cheese Frosting:
• - 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
• - ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
• - 1 cup powdered sugar
• - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Possible Substitutions and Variations:
• If you wish to switch it up or make it slightly healthier, consider using whole wheat flour or a gluten-free flour blend for the dough. For the filling, you can replace brown sugar with coconut sugar or maple syrup for a unique flavor profile. Want a nutty twist? Add a handful of chopped walnuts or pecans to the filling mixture for an added crunch. Don't have cream cheese? Swap it for mascarpone or Greek yogurt for the frosting—both will lend a delicious texture and creamy taste!

Preparation Method

Begin your delightful journey by activating the yeast. Combine the warm milk with the active dry yeast and granulated sugar in a small bowl. Allow this mixture to sit for about 5 minutes or until it becomes frothy and bubbly—a sign that the yeast is alive and ready to work its magic.

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter, eggs, and red food coloring. Follow this by adding the foamy yeast mixture and the salt. Give it a gentle stir to incorporate the ingredients.

Gradually add the all-purpose flour and cocoa powder to the wet ingredients, mixing with a wooden spoon or spatula until the dough starts to come together. Once it’s combined enough to handle, transfer it to a lightly floured surface. Knead the dough for about 8 to 10 minutes or until it's smooth and elastic. You can also use a stand mixer with a dough hook for this step; it makes the work a bit easier!

Once the dough is perfectly silky, place it in a greased bowl and cover it loosely with a kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Put it in a warm, draft-free spot to rise for about an hour, or until it has doubled in size.

While the dough is rising, prepare the filling. In a medium bowl, combine the softened butter, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon. Use a fork or a spatula to mix until it’s well blended and resembles a thick paste. The aroma of cinnamon will start to fill your kitchen, creating a cozy atmosphere.

After one hour, check your dough. Once risen, punch it down gently to release any excess air. Transfer it again onto a floured surface. With a rolling pin, roll the dough into a rectangle approximately 16x12 inches, with the longer side facing you. Evenly spread the cinnamon filling over the dough, going all the way to the edges.

Now for the fun part! Starting from the edge closest to you, roll the dough tightly away from you into a log, ensuring it’s snug but not tearing. Once rolled, pinch the seam to seal and use a sharp knife to slice the log into 12 equal rolls.

Arrange these rolls in a greased baking dish, leaving a bit of space between each roll for some breathing room as they rise again. Cover the pan with a kitchen towel and allow the rolls to rest for an additional 30 minutes to puff up beautifully.

While the rolls are resting, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). After the second rise, you’ll place your rolls into the preheated oven and bake them for about 20 to 25 minutes, or until they are fully cooked and have turned a lovely golden hue on top. They should be fluffy and will bounce back if gently pressed—a sign they are baked to perfection.

As the rolls are baking, turn your attention to the cream cheese frosting. In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, unsalted butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Beat until the mixture is smooth and creamy, free of lumps. Once the rolls are done, take them out of the oven and let them cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before generously applying the frosting while they are still warm. This allows the frosting to slightly melt into the rolls for that dreamy finish.

For an extra touch of flavor, feel free to sprinkle chopped nuts or a light dusting of cocoa powder on top of the frosting.

Tips and Conclusion

If there are any leftovers (we know, it’s hard to believe), allow them to cool completely, then store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. Alternatively, they can be refrigerated for up to a week. If you want to enjoy them warm, simply pop them in the microwave for a few seconds, and they’ll be as delightful as when they were fresh out of the oven. You can also freeze the rolls before baking; just let them rise in the fridge overnight and bake them fresh the next morning for that bakery-fresh experience!
Baking these stunning red velvet cinnamon rolls is not just a culinary task; it’s an experience filled with warmth, joy, and a touch of creativity. As you knead the dough and layer in the cinnamon filling, you’re crafting a piece of confectionary art that’s sure to live long in the memory of those who share in its sweetness. Upon taking that first enchanting bite, you’ll understand the unique pleasure that a roll of red velvet can bring.

If you loved this recipe, you might also want to explore other delightful treats on our site, such as classic cinnamon rolls, decadent brownies, or fluffy pancakes that can also brighten up your days. Don’t forget to share your own spin on these rolls, and we encourage you to keep browsing through our delicious recipes! Happy baking!